FAQs
There is a Foundational Level General Science Credential which is a single subject credential in science that authorizes you to teach only science, K-8. Candidates who select this credential will complete the coursework in the Single Subject Credential Program. To demonstrate subject matter competence for this credential is only via CSET Exams 118 and 119.
To teach more than one science content area you need to demonstrate subject matter competence in more than one content area. You can do this via coursework or examination. You can add additional content areas to your credential at any point in your career.
If you have a MSCP and want to add general/introductory science to your credential you need 32 units of science which include at least 6 semester units in each of the four content aresa (biology, chemistry, physics, earth/space). You should also take EDSS450C (secondary science methods) as you will be teaching in a departmental setting. This added authorization will allow you to teach science K-9. You will need to petition to take EDSS450C as you aren't officially in the Single Subject program. Please see a credential advisor for details about the allowable courses and the petitioning process. THIS IS SUBJECT MATTER ADDED AUTHORIZATION THAT IS ADDED TO YOUR MULTIPLE SUBJECT CREDENTIAL.
MSCP holders (or other credential holders) are able to add the Foundational Level General Science Credential (K-8 single subject credential). To do this candidates must pass CSET exams 118 and 119 and complete the single subject science methods course (EDSS450C) or take CSET 118 & 119 and complete a Single Subject Credential Program. THIS IS A SINGLE SUBJECT CREDENTIAL THAT IS ADDED TO YOUR MULTIPLE SUBJECT CREDENTIAL.
A GPA of 2.67 is required to enter the single subject credential program. In science we look at your overall GPA as well as your GPA in upper division science courses. We expect you to have a 2.67 GPA in both areas. If your GPA is below 2.67 you must petition for program admission. In most cases, your petition is looked upon favorably if your GPA for the last 60 units of college credit is above a 2.75. Your petition is reviewed by the Science Education Department and the Single Subject Credential Program Petition Committee. Students can be admitted, provisionally admitted or rejected at this point. Please note that you must have a 2.50 GPA to be admitted to the university as a post baccalaureate student. Admission to the university does not guarantee admission to the Single Subject Credential Program.
